expert neurosurgical care for infants, children and adolescents

The neurosurgery team at Dayton Children’s provides specialized, multidisciplinary care for children with conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. Families who depend on our neurosurgical team know they are in good hands, and that our specialists will be able to address whatever needs arise.

Each of our neurosurgeons are fellowship trained, with extensive experience in performing complex procedures and have on average 20 years of experience. They take a conservative approach, pursuing non-surgical and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. The neurosurgeons at Dayton Children’s also have experience performing surgeries that are only done by a few pediatric physicians nationwide and make it a goal to continue to bring the latest neurosurgical techniques and technology to Dayton Children’s as soon as they become available.

We invite you to take some time to learn more about the neurosurgery program at Dayton Children’s and how our physicians can help make a difference for your child.

contact usrequest an appointment

The neurosurgery department welcomes phone calls to 937- 641-3461 during our normal business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

A physician referral is necessary prior to the child’s first outpatient visit. All follow up appointments will be made during your clinic visit or by calling central scheduling at 937-641-4000.

conditions and symptoms we treat

cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a disorder that affects muscle tone, movement, and motor skills (the ability to move in a coordinated and purposeful way). Currently, there's no cure for cerebral palsy. But a variety of resources and therapies can provide help and improve the quality of life for kids with CP.

spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that happens when a baby's backbone (spine) does not form normally. As a result, the spinal cord and the nerves that branch out of it may be damaged. Treatment for spina bifida depends on its severity. Because spina bifida can involve many different body systems, like the nervous and skeletal systems, children may need support from a team of medical professionals.

epilepsy

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder in which electrical signals in the brain misfire, causing temporary communication problems between nerve cells. Someone who gets recurrent seizures is thought to have epilepsy. Your doctor will use the test and exam results to determine the best form of treatment.

chiari malformation

Chiari malformation is brain deformity that affects the lower part of the brain, called the cerebellum. Many kids with this condition aren't bothered by it, and don't have any symptoms. But for some, Chiari malformations can cause headaches, balance problems, and other symptoms.

hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a brain condition that happens when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) — the clear, watery fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord — cannot drain from the brain. It then pools, causing a buildup of fluid in the skull. Treatment for hydrocephalus varies depending on the age of the child, the cause of the CSF buildup and the child's overall health.

cerebral cysts

Most cerebral cysts are congenital, meaning children are born with them. Treatment for cerebral cysts depends on the size and location of the cyst. Small cysts that aren't causing problems usually don't require treatment. Larger cysts or cysts that doctors think may eventually cause problems usually are treated with surgery to remove the cyst or drain fluid from it.

brain tumors

When brain cells grow abnormally or out of control, a tumor (a mass of cells) can form. If the tumor puts pressure on certain areas of the brain, it can affect how the body functions. When discovered early enough, brain tumors are usually treatable. Many that are slow-growing are cured with surgery alone.

tethered spinal cord

Normally, the spinal cord moves freely inside the spinal canal. A tethered cord is when part of the spinal cord is attached inside the spinal canal, and the spinal cord cannot move freely. Surgery to release the spinal cord is the main treatment for a tethered cord.